A sharp increase in the number of emergency food parcels given out by foodbanks in Devon is down to “continued issues with benefit payments” and “low wages” according to charity executives.

Between April 1 and September 30 this year, 2,355 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by Northern Devon Foodbank. An increase of over 30 per cent compared to the same period in the last year.

Out of the 2,355 emergency packages distributed in the last six months, 763 went to children.

The foodbank, a member of The Trussell Trust’s network, which today reported an increase in UK foodbank use, believes the local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments, low wages, insecure work, and a reduction of service from some local charities offering crisis support.

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Chairman of Northern Devon Foodbank, Duncan Withall, said: “It’s really worrying that we are still seeing an increase in need for emergency food across the area.

“Every week people are referred to us after something unavoidable - like illness, a delayed benefit payment or an unexpected bill - means there’s no money for food. It’s only with local people’s help that we’re able to provide vital support when it matters most, and whilst we hope one day there’ll be no need for our work, until that day comes we’ll be working hard to help prevent people going hungry.

“Thank you so much to everyone who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you.”

In the months leading to Christmas a number of factors, such as cold weather and high energy bills, or foodbanks and referral agencies ensuring that people who are likely to hit crisis have food ahead of Christmas Day, mean the Northern Devon Foodbank traditionally sees a spike in foodbank use.

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The Trussell Trust is asking the community to help them prepare for their busiest time of year by donating urgently needed food items.

It is concerned about the future roll-out of full Universal Credit in Torridge and North Devon, following evidence from other foodbanks in the network about the issues people referred to them have experienced with the new system.

A six plus week waiting period for a first payment can contribute to debt, mental health issues and rent arrears.

The effects of these can last even after people receive their Universal Credit payments, as bills and debts pile up.

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North Devon Foodbank is preparing to help prevent local people affected going hungry but is troubled by the extra pressure this puts on food donation stocks, volunteers and finance.

The running costs for the foodbank are around £35,000 a year, all of which is raised locally to enable them to continue their work.

Costs include warehouse space, to sort and stock donated food, a van to pick up donated food and deliver to distribution centres, and other overheads like rent, utilities and insurances.

The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding – local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at www.northerndevon.foodbank.org.uk.